Majority of the famous buildings and mosques in the Muslim world were originally designed by Turkish architects based on the principles laid down by great Architect Sinan. Prominent Turkish architects stated this while speaking at an exhibition entitled "Contemporary Turkish architecture" and "Mimar (Architect) Sinan's masterpieces" held on the eve of 400th anniversary of Sinan's architecture here on Tuesday.
The exhibition was jointly organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Turkey and The Institute of Architects, Pakistan at the National Library of Pakistan.
Minister of State for Interior Shahzad Waseem inaugurated the exhibition.
Speaking on the occasion, Professor Dr Jale Erzen from the Middle East Technical University Ankara said that originally the design of the world's biggest mosque, (Faisal Mosque) was designed on the principles conceived by Sinan centuries ago.
She said the Turkish architects have initially designed the Faisal Mosque for Turkey, but it was rejected by the then neo-conservative rulers and the design was taken by Pakistan.
Turkish Architect Vidaat Dalokai's entry won the international competition organised for the Faisal Mosque in 1969, she said, adding that this is a rich heritage of Islamic world, depicting the contemporary Turkish architecture and Islamic trend of art.
Dr Jale said that Sinan's architecture is a social programme under the ideology of Islam that all buildings and mosques in the Muslim countries were presenting the symbol of social/religious services.
She said that Sinan's architectural heritage is still alive in the shape of spirituality and beauty reflecting in the mosques and buildings.
Hamad Hussain, Chairman, Institute of Architecture, Pakistan and Dr Abdi Guzer of the Middle East Technical University also gave presentations on "Faisal Mosque-the work of a genius and architectural media and publicity".
Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan Kamal Gur was also present on the occasion.